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Successful Treatment of Scalp Micropigmentation With 1064 nm Picosecond Nd:YAG Laser
Author(s) -
Wu Douglas C.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
lasers in surgery and medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.888
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1096-9101
pISSN - 0196-8092
DOI - 10.1002/lsm.23364
Subject(s) - picosecond , scalp , medicine , laser , neodymium , surgery , yttrium aluminium garnet , materials science , optics , physics
Background and Objectives Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a useful technique that applies permanent camouflage for hair loss and scarring. However, suboptimal outcomes necessitate removal. To date, there have been no reports of SMP removal with a picosecond laser. In this report, we demonstrate the safety and efficacy of 1064 nm picosecond neodymium yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for the removal of SMP. Study Design/Materials and Methods This was a case series of four patients who presented with undesirable SMP. Following induction of adequate cutaneous anesthesia, a 1064 nm picosecond Nd:YAG laser was applied to all surface areas with SMP. Post‐operative care consisted of 1% dimethicone ointment applied twice daily to the affected areas for 3–7 days. Patients were evaluated after 3–4 weeks and additional treatment sessions were undertaken if necessary. Results Clearance of SMP was achieved within 1–3 treatment sessions in all cases. There were no unexpected adverse events. Conclusion Picosecond Nd:YAG laser is an excellent treatment option for undesirable SMP. It is safe and effective and typically requires fewer treatment sessions than traditional tattoo removal. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC